Port of Vancouver Rail Network Simulation Model: Planning for Intermodal Growth

With increasing intermodal traffic, a properly configured Dynamic Rail Simulation model can recreate and assess the components of complex rail networks that serve deep-sea container ports. Analysts with in-depth rail operations and/or analysis backgrounds are able to evaluate DRS output and format the resulting data into reports and exhibits that illustrate to a port authority, terminal operator or railway whether rail infrastructure and operating plans for an area will be capable of handling forecasted growth in traffic. Modifications to rail infrastructure and/or train operations, developed by railway personnel or an experienced simulation analyst, can also be tested using dynamic simulation, and the value of those changes can be quantified against the costs associated with them. The information provided by Dynamic Rail Simulation can determine whether new or expanded intermodal (or other traffic type) facilities should be constructed from a rail support perspective. It has been the VPA's and MLM's experience that the feasibility of many terminal projects is based upon local demand or economic benefit, while the impact on, or ability of, the rail service to support new or expanded facilities is not appropriately considered. This can result in significant capital being invested to construct a facility that will have difficulty in reaching its planned potential. Dynamic Rail Simulation offers a methodology to assess a frequently ignored portion of the entire chain of logistics required by rail served facilities.